Some days, no matter how much I squint and rub, they just won't focus.

I've been wearing glasses since I was elementary age. My eyes have grown progressively worse, and they didn't stabilize until I reached my forties. They are still changing slightly, but for the most part, they are what they are. But some days, the blurriness rushes in—no doubt because I've looked at the computer screen too long, graded too many papers, or didn't get enough sleep. My focus isn't always what I wish it were.

Neither was the focus of the crowd who witnessed the early apostles heal a crippled man:

Acts 14:11 – When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in their local dialect, "These men are gods in human form!" (NLT)

Instead of turning to the One who gave the power to perform the miracle, they got caught up in the moment and attributed divine powers to Paul and Barnabas.

I've concluded, based on what God's Word teaches, that my focus should always be centred on what glorifies God. "Glorify" is one of those slippery, religious words that's variously defined. I choose to define it as putting the spotlight on God. Jesus taught that the purpose of my carrying out good works was that others might see them and in turn glorify the Father, or shine the spotlight on Him.

I should also focus on whatever enables me to fulfill God's plan and purpose for my life. Doing this will eliminate many of my side trips into areas where I have no business travelling. It will also help me to fulfill the Acts 1:8 commission: to go into the entire world telling about Christ's love.

Only with God's help can I regain and maintain my focus. Are you focused in?

Prayer: Eternal God and Master, keep our focus clear so that our work for You will be successful and pleasing in Your sight. Amen.

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About the author:

Martin Wiles <mandmwiles@gmail.com>
Greenwood, South Carolina, USA
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